Understanding Crimes Committed by Minors

Some minors have yet to gain full appreciation for the legal system. As a result, some minors this summer season will find themselves accused of crimes and in trouble with law enforcement. This article will examine some of the most common types of crimes that minors are accused of during the summer months.

The types of crimes that minors might find themselves getting into this summer include the following:

Assault and Battery: In an effort to crack down on bullying and rough-housing between minors, California law enforcement has begun to charge more minors with assault and battery. Under battery, a juvenile engages in physical contact, while for assault to exist an individual only need reasonably believe that there is the threat of real physical harm.

Alcohol Offenses: Some juveniles engage in drinking alcohol in an attempt to look cool or fit in with others. It is worth repeating that alcohol possession, purchase, or consumption is a crime before one reaches the age of twenty one.

Drug Offenses: Minors often also engage in drug use and possession, most noticeably marijuana.

Theft: The most common type of theft crime among minors is shoplifting or stealing items from a friend’s house or a school locker.

Trespassing: Minors have a tendency to wander into places that are off limits and as a result, they can end up facing trespassing charges.

Vandalism: It is not uncommon for minors to try to impress each other by throwing items into windows, breaking into vehicles, or spraying graffiti on buildings, all of which can result in vandalism charges.

Important Reminders Regarding Crimes Committed by Minors

There are several important things for minors and the parents of minors to remember this summer season:

Understand the Effects of Crimes: Even the most minor crimes can result in criminal charges being filed.

Juvenile Detention: Even minors can be sentenced to incarceration in juvenile centers for committing crimes.

Understand the Lines Between Adults and Juvenile Crimes: It is important that minors and minor’s parents understand the differences between juvenile and adult sentencing.

Permanence: The crimes that minors might believe to be small can end up following them throughout their lives on their permanent criminal records.

Be Sure to Attend Hearings: Failure to show up for a hearing can result in law enforcement issuing either a fine or enforcement order.

Experienced Lawyer: An experienced lawyer is the best defense strategy in case you are the minor or the parent of a minor who faces criminal charges.